CEO Stories

Jim Simpson | Birmingham's music heritage is underappreciated

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Episode notes

Jim Simpson is a Birmingham music legend.

As well as being credited as the man who gave Black Sabbath their big break, he is the founder of Big Bear Records and the director of Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival. 

In this episode, Jim discusses his illustrious career spanning decades as a musician, manager, record label and festival founder, author, photographer and much more.

He shares anecdotes about iconic figures he's worked with and the challenges and triumphs of Birmingham's vibrant music industry.

Jim also explains why he feels Birmingham's rich musical heritage is underappreciated - and emphasises the need for a rock and roll museum to honour the city's contributions. 

Henrietta Brealey is currently on maternity leave. This interview was pre-recorded. All information was correct at the time of recording.

Key topics:

· Founding Big Bear Records

· Birth of the Jazz & Blues Festival

· Managing Black Sabbath

· Birmingham's music heritage

· The Visit of Oz

· The future of the jazz and blues